Nkechi Ewa
A civil society coalition has raised concerns over alleged procurement irregularities in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), involving recently initiated capital projects within the campus.
According to the group, the projects in question include a 4.5-kilometre internal road construction and the rehabilitation of the university-owned filling station—together estimated at about ₦2.8 billion.
The coalition alleged that the projects commenced shortly after the assumption of office by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, without adherence to due procurement processes.
It claimed that construction works began before seeking or securing approval from the University of Nigeria Tenders Board, adding that documents relating to the contracts were only presented to the board on October 13, several weeks after work had already started.
The group further alleged that contractors were mobilised to site without advertisement, competitive bidding, or proper award procedures, contrary to the provisions of the Public Procurement Act (2007).
Citing Section 58 of the Act, the coalition noted that violations of procurement rules attract penalties, including a minimum five-year jail term without an option of fine.
It called on the ICPC, EFCC, and Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) to launch a thorough investigation into the alleged infractions, warning that a lack of action from the authorities may leave the group with no choice but to pursue legal redress.